Opel Trixx

2004 Geneva Auto Show

With DaimlerChrysler’s introduction of the Smart ForTwo, GM has answered back with the Opel Trixx. The Trixx presents some clever solutions to the problem of making a car that is 10 feet long yet can meet all current safety regulations. Whereas the Smart has its engine between the rear wheels, Opel has managed to package the 1.3-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine and front-wheel drive by thinking tall. The Trixx is 61 inches tall, and its short hood is raised enough to mount the radiator above the engine. Inside, the seating is “three plus one” (three adults and one child), with an inflatable rear seat that can be deflated to increase load space. There are three doors—one on the driver’s side and two for passengers—and a drawer-type luggage compartment slides out of the truncated tail. Opel has yet to decide whether it wants to enter the microcar market but has developed this design just in case.